Is Instagram not doing it for you? Maybe you’re overwhelmed by content creation, underwhelmed by low reach, and understandably upset that you’re not getting better results. If you’re nodding your head, then keep reading because today I’m sharing three ideas you can immediately implement to improve your Instagram game (based on my conversation with Chelsea Peitz on the Influential Personal Brand podcast).
Cracking the Algorithm: Time on Platform Is Key
First, let’s demystify the Instagram algorithm. It’s not some secret formula that only influencers know about. The core principle is straightforward: the more time you spend engaging on the platform, the more Instagram will reward you. That’s it. Reply to comments, have conversations in DMs, and actively engage with other people’s content.
The longer you spend on the platform, the more ad revenue they generate. So Instagram prioritizes users who spend more time interacting and bringing others back to the platform. That means posting consistently with high-quality, searchable content is just the starting point. The real magic happens in the engagement. Chelsea emphasized that the most important conversations happen in those interactions, not just in the content you post.
Be Findable: Optimize Your Profile for Search
Instagram, like other social media platforms, is a search engine. People use it to find content, entertainment, education, and connections. So make yourself easily findable. Your handle should ideally be your name or as close to it as possible. If I meet someone and they say, “Find me on Instagram,” I assume it’s under their name. Avoid obscure names like “jogger123_2023” that aren’t immediately recognizable.
Next, optimize the name field on your profile. This is where your legal name and affiliations can come in handy. For instance, mine is “Amanda Johns Vaden | Brand Builders Group,” making it easy for people searching for me or my company to find me. While other information on your profile is helpful, it’s these two fields that are truly searchable. Once someone finds you, your profile should clearly communicate who you are, what they can expect, and how they can engage with you off the platform.
Make Some Videos
If social media is a component of your lead generation and customer engagement strategy, you’ve got to get good at going on camera.
Here are a few quick tips for creating impactful videos:
• Save the best for first: Start with your most engaging content. People want to know what they’re going to get from the video right away. Pose a question or share a bold statement to capture attention immediately.
• Keep it concise: Make your videos short and to the point. Attention spans are short, and you want to maintain interest.
• Engage multiple senses: Use captions because many people watch videos on mute and captions make your videos more accessible.
• Move: Whether it’s changing angles or using hand gestures, keeping some motion in your videos can help hold people’s attention.
If you’re struggling to come up with enough content ideas, don’t overthink it. Share your unique story and experiences, but also consider sharing everyday moments or answering frequently asked questions.
The Bigger Picture: Building Relationships Beyond Instagram
Ultimately, Instagram is just one tool in your brand-building arsenal. It’s a platform to advertise and connect, but the real goal is to build relationships that move beyond social media. Encourage your audience to join your email list or subscribe to your blog or podcast. Building these relationships takes time and effort, just like in-person connections.
You don’t need a massive following or viral videos to make a significant impact. Focus on building genuine relationships and providing value to your audience, and the rest will follow. My team and I at Brand Builders Group are always in your corner and just a free Brand Strategy Call away.
